The match crackled with intensity from the outset, and it was Lyon who drew first blood in the 17th minute. French winger Kadidiatou Diani fired home, only for the linesman's flag to initially deny her the opener. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened, correctly overturning the offside decision and sending the Lyon bench into celebration.
Lyon continued to assert their dominance, and the prodigious talent of Dumornay was evident throughout the match. In the 33rd minute, the 21-year-old showcased her audacious ability, unleashing a powerful 40-meter strike that rattled the Arsenal crossbar, a warning sign of her potential to unlock the Gunners' defense.
However, after the break, Arsenal emerged with renewed vigor and determination. Their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when they were awarded a penalty. The incident occurred during an inswinging corner, as Lyon's experienced goalkeeper, Christiane Endler, inadvertently punched Arsenal captain Leah Williamson in the back of the head while attempting a clearance. Once again, the VAR played a crucial role, spotting the infringement and prompting the referee to point to the spot. Spanish international Mariona Caldentey coolly slotted the penalty home, igniting the home crowd and seemingly shifting the momentum in Arsenal's favor.
Just as Arsenal appeared to have wrestled their way back into the contest, Dumornay stepped up to deliver a decisive blow. In the 82nd minute, the dynamic forward displayed her exceptional dribbling prowess, surging past the Arsenal defense with pace and precision before calmly slotting a low finish past the outstretched arms of the goalkeeper. The goal not only silenced the Emirates Stadium but also secured Lyon's ninth consecutive Champions League victory this season.
Speaking after the match, Arsenal striker Alessia Russo acknowledged the quality of their opponents, stating, "We had some really good spells, but they are very, very clinical up top." Her words underscored the ruthless efficiency that has defined Lyon's illustrious history in the competition.
With this crucial away win, Lyon, who remain unbeaten across all competitions this campaign, have significantly boosted their chances of reaching a record 12th Women's Champions League final. They will host the second leg on April 27th, aiming to secure their ninth title – their first since 2022.
The other semifinal pits defending champions Barcelona against Chelsea, with their first leg scheduled for Sunday in Spain. The outcome of the Lyon-Arsenal clash has now heightened the possibility of a tantalizing Lyon versus Barcelona final, a familiar showdown that has occurred three times in the last six seasons, promising another enthralling chapter in the history of women's club football. For Arsenal, the dream of becoming only the second English team to lift the trophy since their sole triumph in 2007 now faces a significant hurdle as they prepare for the daunting task of overturning the deficit in France.